Two major changes to this year's event will affect the numbers of volunteers needed to staff the Parade & Celebration. SF Pride is going Green and launching a major recycling initiative. The Parade is starting 30 minutes earlier, at 10 a.m., to accommodate the largest turnout ever, and a concerted effort is being made to close the gaps that have plagued the Parade in the past. These changes, while making for an extraordinary event increases the need for volunteers.

Pride President, Joey Cain, said:

"As a community we show respect for ourselves and each other. By recycling we are also showing respect for our Earth. Without volunteers the SF Pride Parade and Celebration could not happen. We need our community's hope for a better World and desire for a shorter Parade to energize individuals to step forward and make a difference this year by volunteering."

The recycling initiative is being planned in partnership with SF Environment and Norcal. Although the eventual goal is zero-waste from the event, there are many unique challenges that an event the size and scale of SF Pride presents and the recycling plan, it is hoped, will be adapted as a blueprint for other large public events. Volunteers to staff the program will make a vital contribution and their efforts will benefit many other events, putting recycling on the map in a sector which has traditionally been behind the curve.

Parade volunteers are also needed to ensure the Safety of the Parade and to help monitor and close gaps. Their labors ensure that the parade runs smoothly and is enjoyable for all who participate. Many of the Safety volunteers have been volunteering for a number of years and come from all over the Bay Area. The earlier start time places an additional strain on recruitment for the earlier shifts. Added to this has been a steady decrease in the core of the Safety volunteer pool over the years. For these reasons, recruitment of Safety volunteers is a top priority.

"You get a much better view on the route and up close as a Safety Monitor than on the side walk, twelve-deep craning your neck for a glimpse of the action. Our Safety team and the standards they have set are the best in the World, but they need your help to keep it that way."

Said Pride Executive Director, Teddy Witherington.

Pride relies on volunteers for these and in many other event-related areas. Volunteers also work yearlong to make the Parade and Celebration a reality. A complete list of volunteer opportunities can be found at: www.sfpride.org/volunteer/

All volunteers receive a t-shirt, lunch and/or snacks, a collectible volunteer pin, a goodie bag and an invitation to the volunteer appreciation party where the volunteer raffle includes fabulous prizes such as memorabilia signed by Celebrity Grand Marshal, Armistead Maupin, mini-vacations donated by AAA and even a cruise for two donated by Atlantis Events. Most importantly, volunteers will be a part of producing our community's Pride Event and giving everyone who attends hope for a better World.